Japan's Tokara Region Sees Nearly 1000 Earthquakes In Recent Days

A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck off the coast of southwestern Japan on Thursday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The epicenter was located near the Tokara island chain in Kagoshima Prefecture, approximately 1,200 kilometers southwest of Tokyo.

This earthquake was one of the 1000 earthquakes that the region has experienced in recent days.

Despite the strength of the tremor, the JMA confirmed that no tsunami warning was issued. However, officials are urging caution in the affected areas.

“In areas where the tremors were strong, there is an increased risk of collapsed houses and landslides,” warned Ayataka Ebita, director of the agency’s earthquake and tsunami observation division. He advised residents to remain alert for additional seismic activity, saying, “Please be aware of earthquakes of similar magnitude for the foreseeable future.”

A seismic intensity of "6-lower" on Japan's 7-point scale—indicating a strong quake capable of causing structural damage—was recorded on Akuseki Island, part of the Tokara archipelago.

In response to the increased seismic activity, officials have urged the 89 residents of one of the smaller islands in the chain to evacuate as a precaution.

So far, no major injuries or significant damage have been reported. Emergency services and local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.